Physiotherapy is a health care profession which assists people to restore, maintain and maximize their strength, function, movement, and overall well-being. The terms “physiotherapy” and “physical therapy” mean the same thing and are used interchangeably, as are the terms “physiotherapist” and “physical therapist”.

Physiotherapists have in-depth knowledge of how the body works and specialized hands-on clinical skills to assess, diagnose, and treat symptoms of illness, injury and disability. Physiotherapy includes rehabilitation, as well as prevention of injury, and promotion of health and fitness. Physiotherapists often work in teams with other health professionals to help meet an individual’s health care needs.

Physiotherapy can help you:

• Increase vital strength
• Increase freedom of movement and mobility 
• Core breathing control
• Reduce pain 
• Stay active 
• Prevent injury

Physiotherapists work in:

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation centres 
• Long term care facilities 
• Private clinics 
• Schools 
• Child development centres 
• Workplace/Industry
• Universities

Physiotherapy Clinical Practice Areas include:

• Orthopaedics
• Neurosciences
• Paediatrics
• Geriatric Care
• Research
• Sports
• Women’s Health

Common conditions that can be improved with physiotherapy include, but are not limited to:

• Injury
• Post-operative Rehabilitation
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Post Motor Vehicle Accident Rehabilitation
• Return-to-work Rehabilitation